6 Food Swaps You Should Make for Healthier Skin

We are always looking for new products to reduce acne and facial redness, but those can often be expensive and require a lot of trial and error. Why waste your money and your time on a long line of products that don't necessarily produce results? The simple answer is that you don't have to. Rather, you should reevaluate your diet and consider its implications on your skin's health. Here is a list of six of the most common foods that you should replace to reduce acne and facial blemishes.

 1. Foods with White Flour

High glycemic foods are some of the most common things found in our diets. They are also one of the leading causes of diet-induced acne. Some examples include white breads, white pastas, white flour, and corn syrup. Instead of these, you should try to integrate whole grain pastas, whole grain breads, or even brown rice into your diet. 

2. Non-Dark Chocolate

Sadly, chocolate is also a reason behind breakouts and other facial blemishes. However, there is a bright side: not all chocolates are bad for your skin. Instead of eating chocolates from companies like Hershey's that produce their products with milk or butter, you should try to find chocolates that have high percentages of cacao.

3. Junk and Fast Foods

This one shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. Junk food is not good for you, so of course it's not good for your skin. So put down the Big Mac and start incorporating smarter, healthier foods into your diet. For example, if you're a Chipotle regular, the veggie burrito bowl with no dairy is a great, skin-conscious choice. Whole Foods also has many great options if you're on the go. The salad bar offers all kinds of options for a healthy meal, just avoid adding dairy (see number six on this list). Check out their pre-made foods like wraps and on-the-go sushi too

4. Sugars and Processed Foods

This is probably one of the harder categories to adjust, but foods and drinks that contain high levels of sugar are a major catalyst of acne. Protein bars are one of the worst things you could do your skin, as the sugar spikes insulin levels, which can cause acne, rashes, and even wrinkles. If you need a quick snack, your go-to should be almonds or fruit.

5. Alcohol

Sodas and alcohol should also be avoided, or enjoyed in moderation. For example, margaritas and beer can wreck your skin. Shots of hard liquor are the way to go if you're going to go out. Since there are no additives in vodka, tequila, or whiskey, they have little effect on the health of your skin. That being said, too much is never good for your skin. 

6. Dairy Products

While topical skincare products may help, it is important to remember that your outward appearance begins with your insides, especially when it comes to your skin's health. Acne and facial blemishes are very closely related to the foods you eat, so you should always keep in mind what you should and shouldn't eat.